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Pet Loss Grief

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Pet Loss Grief

Pet Loss GriefPet Loss GriefPet Loss Grief
  • Home
  • About
  • Memorials
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  • Blog
  • FAQ

About Me

Woman smiling with her happy dog outdoors.

Finding Meaning

Wilson, my "Big Dog", lived his life for 10.5 years. He was my best friend, and therefore my most heart-wrenching loss. When his unexpected last day arrived, it felt as if my heart ripped open.  And, I felt that the feeling would never go away. 


Following the initial stage of shock and pain, my grief followed in waves. One day would be good, while the next day was not.  With the passing of time, slowing down my pace, prioritizing self-care, feeling, and relying on a village of support, I was able to navigate through my grief and learn how to restructure my world without my furry friend in it.


Focusing whole-heartedly on my healing process, it has guided me to revamp my purpose, and find new meaning.  From the beginning, my passion has always been to help others, however since Wilson's death, I have chosen to gravitate towards an area in which there is far-too-few supports: Pet Loss.


About my Career

Experience

Twenty-two years ago, I began my career, teaching middle schoolers in an urban setting.  The teaching role, with a primary focus on academics and less on emotional health, has guided me towards change.


Furthering my education in Psychology was my next course of action.  I graduated from Springfield College with a Master's Degree in Art Therapy/Counseling, and in 2015 I earned a license as a Mental Health Counselor in the state of Massachusetts.


Over the past 12 years, supporting individuals with emotional challenges within the community and private practice, has equipped me with experience, knowledge and competency in the mental health field.


It wasn't until recent, that Grief has become the focal point of my practice.  Due to personal life experience that came with the death of my dog, a passion to understand bereavement on a deeper level, and the fact that pet loss is often invalidated, I furthered my credentials.  I trained and became specialized in Pet Loss Grief.  


Being a lifelong learner, Fall 2025, I pursued certification as a Grief Educator from one of the most well known and respected experts in the field of Death and Grieving: David Kessler.


Going forward, my mission is to serve individuals who, like me, are having a hard time adjusting to life without thier beloved furry companion.  Where support is often lacking, I would like to hold a safe space for you to be able to share your story.  


Please contact me when you're ready.

Wilson's Legacy

It all began with Wilson.  


His love changed my life, and his loss led me to this work- serving others through one of life's deepest heartbreaks.


To all of those I've had the privilege to support- thank you.  


Thank you for trusting me with one of the most tender chapters of your life.  It is a privilege to walk beside you as you navigate your grief and honor your beloved companion.

Katie Murphy, LMHC | Pet Loss Grief Counselor | Massachusetts | Telehealth

"Take back the narrative of the story...the story isn't about the pain, it's about the Love."

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